Ashley McGraw Architects Recognized with 2 Awards at the 2024 AIA CNY Celebration of Architecture

Westhill High School Library Media Center

Bethlehem Middle School Library Media Center

On Friday, November 15, 2024, Ashley McGraw Architects attended the American Institute of Architects (AIA) CNY’s Celebration of Architecture. At the event, Ashley McGraw was recognized with an Award of Merit for the Bethlehem Central School District Middle School Library Media Center Renovation and a Citation of Design Award for the renovation of Westhill Central School District’s High School.

Bethlehem CSD Library Media Center

The Bethlehem Central School District sought to create a vibrant Library Media Center (LMC) as an intellectual and social hub, transforming their existing library. The design emphasized the existing architecture's double-height space, creating a sense of progression and intellectual elevation. The circulation desk was repositioned for staff supervision, and a wood ceiling defined collaboration and quiet zones. Updated finishes reflected the district's colors, with flexible furniture chosen for the central collaboration area. The LMC was designed to celebrate books, learning, and curiosity, fostering a sense of pride and making it a unique destination within the school. The completed LMC is a welcoming, evolving space inspiring intellectual pursuits and alleviating academic pressures. It has become the school's hub, embodying a welcoming gathering space.

Westhill CSD High School Renovations

Constructed in 1962, the Westhill High School was overdue for modernization and a deep energy retrofit. The District and the design team saw an opportunity not only to replace failing building systems, but to rethink how this project could drive instructional conversation through architectural design. While the project focused on revitalizing spaces to support an innovative approach to education, we also wanted to acknowledge the character of the original architecture—not obliterate it. A model for mid-century school buildings - the renovation prioritized sustainability, collaboration, and adaptability while embodying contemporary educational philosophies and preparing students for future success. The project's impact is evident in the enhanced instructional delivery as post-occupancy surveying captured positive feedback from faculty and students seeing improvements in engagement, collaboration, critical thinking, self-motivation, and confidence. The project was completed in two phases. Phase 1. Phase 2.  

Congratulations to the members of both design teams!